5 Common Acupuncture Questions Answered by TYM Acupuncturist Ariella Meinhard

Interested in booking Acupuncture, but not sure what it's all about? Our in-studio Acupuncturist Ariella Meinhard offers some information for first-time and seasoned patients on the benefits Prenatal and Postpartum Acupuncture.

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Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

Receiving acupuncture treatments by a qualified practitioner is safe throughout all stages of your pregnancy. Acupuncture works be regulating your body’s energy systems, thereby working with your body towards achieving greater health and well-being. 


What conditions can acupuncture help with during pregnancy? 

Acupuncture can support your health during your pregnancy by addressing these trimester symptoms:

• First trimester - Sets the foundation for a healthy pregnancy. It can alleviate morning sickness, vomiting, fatigue and headaches.
• Second trimester - Offers relief from common complaints. It helps to alleviate heartburn, hemorrhoids, stress, sleep problems, edema, elevated blood pressure and weight gain.
• Third trimester - Prepares the body for labor and delivery. It helps to alleviate sciatica, hip, joint, pubic and back pain.

When should I start and how often should I go?

If you are feeling any discomfort or presenting with any symptoms, acupuncture is an ideal treatment to help you feel better throughout any stage of your pregnancy. The frequency and duration of treatment varies with each individual. 


Can acupuncture help induce labor?

If your due-date has passed, acupuncture can be used to help encourage your body to go into labor through gentler means than traditional Western labor-inducing treatments and medications. Acupuncture and acupressure can also be used to help control pain, calm the mind and reduce stress during delivery.


After delivery of the baby, should I keep getting acupuncture? Are there benefits?

It's important to recover properly after childbirth. Acupuncture can help you heal and regain your strength and vitality. It will help you rebalance your energy, boost your body's defenses and help address concerns such as pain, fatigue, and postpartum depression.

I'm weary of needles, does acupuncture hurt? It looks kind of scary!?

Acupuncture should not be painful. The needles that are used can be as fine as hairs and are generally inserted very shallowly, so it’s not like getting a medical injection. If you have concerns, please be sure to address them with your practitioner before your treatment. Acupressure can always be substituted for needles, and can still be extremely effective. 


Can I get acupuncture covered by my benefits? 

If your extended health care plan covers acupuncture by a registered acupuncturist, then your treatments should be covered. ​

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Tell me more about your qualifications, pretty please!?

I am a registered practitioner of Chinese medicine and acupuncture with the Ontario College of acupuncture and Chinese medicine (CTCMPAO). I completed 4 years of studies at the Institute of Traditional Medicine and have pursued post-graduate training and education with renowned practitioners in the field of women’s health, Japanese acupuncture, and obstetric acupuncture. I have been in private practice since 2008 and I also instruct and supervise students of acupuncture and Chinese medicine in Toronto.

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   - Peace, Love and Yoga ~ The Toronto Yoga Mamas Team